FNB UFS Shimlas produced an attacking masterclass to thrash FNB Maties 50-28 in Bloemfontein and end a seven-game drought against the Cape-based side.
Last week, FNB Shimlas scored eight tries and 56 points against FNB UWC in Bellville. On this occasion, they put seven tries and 50 points past one of the tournament’s traditional powerhouses to announce themselves as the favourites for the 2022 FNB Varsity Cup title.
It’s worth noting that FNB Shimlas lost 81-24 to FNB Maties in the corresponding fixture last year. Clearly a new coaching staff – which includes former Springbok attacking guru Swys de Bruin – and approach has made all the difference. The forwards laid the platform for this important victory. Openside flank Thabo Ndimande set the tone when he powered through the defence for the first of his two tries.
FNB Shimlas turned down several kicks at goal in the period that followed, and earned the desired reward when they scored four tries from close range. By half-time, the hosts had powered their way into a commanding lead. They had also secured the four-try bonus point. They weren’t done yet, though.
Lock Marco van Rhyn was shown a yellow card after FNB Maties were given a team warning for cynical play on their own tryline. FNB Shimlas didn’t hesitate to kick the resultant penalty to touch. They reset their formidable maul, and scored. Ndimande emerged from the pile of bodies and was credited with his third try of the evening. The flanker had an outstanding match at the set pieces and at the breakdowns, but was particularly potent with ball in hand. The Free State students lost their way in the third quarter, and conceded two yellow cards due to infringements on their own tryline. FNB Maties narrowed the deficit to 10 points – and may have reduced the gap further if not for their wayward goal-kicking.
Against the run of play, however, the 13-man Shimlas struck a telling blow. The result marks FNB Shimlas’ third win against FNB Maties in the history of the tournament – as well as their first victory against the men from Stellenbosch since 2015.
